Chateau Marmont Hotel

The Chateau Marmont is one of the classiest, hippest places to stay in Los Angeles. I like it better than The Mondrian, with all of its wannabe actor bellhops and their lame all-white rooms. The staff at the Chateau is very gracious. The lounge with the piano is fantastic. There are almost always some interesting people there,lots of low-key celebs. If you can, get a suite on one of the upper floors. They have great views of the Los Angeles area and fantastic porches. The restaurant downstairs is fantastic. You can sit outside while you eat and the food is delicious. Highly recommend you stay here.

The Chateau Marmont is famous, or infamous, as the place where John Belushi died. Now, it is a favored place for celebrities and high-powered executives looking for privacy in classical style.

The rooms are art deco 1950s style decor full mini bars and a great selection of music CDs but you can't beat the views of the Sunset Strip from suite 55, the famed suite where Desi Arnaz and Lucy are said to have fought with Desi sending his suitcase flying onto the street from the balcony. If you are looking for a typical hotel experience, this is not it. It's more like a private residence for the elite and demanding. It's more than a bit pricey, but worth it.